The Core Values model is comprised of six factors that can be aggregated to explain one’s need for autonomy, competence, and relatedness.

There are two labels for each of the six Core Values scales, one representing the high side of the scale and one representing the low side of the scale. While the diagnostic is built upon a scientific and empirical model, it leverages the intuitiveness and ease of tools such as the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator. Rather than overwhelming the respondent with many scales and percentage scores, we only present feedback on their most extreme three scores. This is determined by comparing their scores to the normative database and identifying the three scales that deviate furthest from the sample mean.

As a result of this approach, respondents are given three adjectives that describe their Core Values. For example, individuals with very low Novelty and Power scores and high Connection scores would be described as believing in Tradition, Humility, and Relationships. To help the respondent quickly get insight and understanding, we do not provide feedback on scores that do not widely deviate from the mean, although this data is available to platform administrators.

Table 1: The Core Values Scales & Labels

The following section describes each of these values, providing an interpretative explanation to assist practitioners in understanding scores and providing feedback.

The Novelty scale describes the extent to which one values change and innovation. Individuals who score high on this scale can be described as risk-taking, constantly seeking and trying new things, and critical of the status quo. Individuals who score low on this scale can be described as traditional, conforming, and upholding of social conventions and norms.

The Power scale describes the extent to which one values social status and dominance. Individuals who score high on this scale can be described as being drawn to positions of leadership and influence, ambitious, and hungry for recognition. Individuals who score low on this scale can be described as being humble, egalitarian, and cooperative.

The Mastery scale describes the extent to which one values mastering new skills. Individuals who score high on this scale can be described as being highly focused on their personal and professional development, having a strong need to be competent in their domain, and being goal-oriented. Individuals who score low on this scale are motivated to live a relaxed life and are unlikely to challenge themselves unless necessary.

The Inquiry scale describes the extent to which one values curiosity and difference. Individuals who score high on this scale can be described as having a hungry mind that is curious about the world, tolerant and welcoming towards different people and cultures, and appreciative of arts and culture. Individuals who score low on this scale can be described as practical and pragmatic, preferring to stick to the familiar, and likely to endorse conservative ideals.

The Virtue scale describes the extent to which one is motivated by living in accordance to one’s moral code. Individuals who score high on this scale can be described as being principled, of high integrity, and altruistic. Individuals who score low on this scale can be described as having a flexible moral compass, likely to put themselves before others, and preferring to do what is easy over what is right.

The Connection scale describes the extent to which one values social connection and affiliation. Individuals who score high on this scale can be described as someone who is sociable, strongly prioritizes relationships in their lives, and derives a lot of joy from social connection. Individuals who score low on this scale can be described as being independent, uninterested in building and maintaining relationships, and likely to be candid towards others.